Ann Taylor and The Loft coming to Canada.

Hard to keep track of the invasion of US retailers coming to Canada, specifically those targeting women. Today Ann Taylor announced the arrival of The Loft in late 2012.  Plans to open the first Ann Taylor store are already underway.

There seems to be a steady stream of US retailers setting up shop.  In 2011 we saw J Crew and Express.  This year we will have Marshalls, Intermix and Tory Birch.  The opportunity is significant if they snag a decent location and price themselves reasonably well.  Sales per foot at shopping malls in Canada are 50% higher than the US, and we have far less retail footage.  Screams with potential.

Sadly, there is a short list of fashion-fabulous Canadian retailers who pose a meaningful threat to these US entrants.  Message to Canadian retailers, get your act together and give us a reason to stay loyal!

Spend more in the US! New rules on Cross Border shopping.

Effective today, you can now spend more money shopping in the US before getting hit with paying additional duties and GST.  The government raised duty exceptions and the savings to the consumer is substantial.  While the average Canadian consumer will be celebrating, especially given the strength of our dollar, the downstream impact of this change is significant.  Retail in border towns accross our great nation will suffer the consequences, as their citizens take a drive south to purchase everything from groceries, to diapers to apparel.

Expect to hear some screaming at the gathering of Canadian Retailers at the Retail Council event next week.......

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